Such a common condition (according to Ogden et al in Shockwave therapy for chronic proximal plantar fasciitis: a meta analysis, these patients represent up to 20% of the visits to healthcare providers specializing in foot and ankle disorders) and resulting in significant disability for the patient, plantar fasciitis is associated with complaints of severe sharp pain at the bottom/inside of the foot, especially when the patient first gets out of bed. There are several causes of plantar fasciitis such as pronation or supination (stepping on the outer or on the inner portion of the foot), increased tension overload on the calf muscles, such as in ladies wearing high heels for prolonged periods of time, among others. I recently have encountered a few patients with plantar fasciitis in my office.
I use stretching and myofascial release techniques, along with underwater ultrasound and chiropractic adjustment of foot subluxations. My female patients are recommended to avoid high heels and all of them instructed to wear night splints and stretch the calf muscles, along with applying ice to the bottom of the foot. I have encountered patients with acute and chronic conditions (I currently have a female patient suffering from this condition for over 15 years). In both instances, as we start the treatment, patients feel some response immediately; however, I must say that the acute and most recently symptomatic ones felt 100% resolution in a few days versus the chronic patients.
Among my recommendations, I always talk to my patients about inflammation and the importance of adding natural anti-inflammatory dietary options in their lives. The proper balance of omegas and the use of other natural anti-inflammatory options are always discussed in my office. The other important approach is the amount of weight patients are applying to the joints - so BMI (Body Mass Index) is another important aspect to be considered when treating this and several other musculoskeletal conditions.
It is definitely imperative to consult with a licensed physician to find out your options for treatment of plantar fasciitis. That physician will make a proper diagnosis of your symptoms and condition and direct you to the best and most appropriate course of treatment for you. Consideration should always be given to conservative treatment prior to any surgical or invasive treatment.